Topsoil Calculator

For a new bed over bare ground, plan on 4-6 inches of topsoil so roots have room to spread. A 10 by 10 ft bed at 6 inches deep needs 50 cubic feet, about 1.85 cubic yards before waste. Add 10% for settling.

Average loamy topsoil weighs about 2,000 lb (1 short ton) per cubic yard. Sandy mixes run closer to 2,300 lb, clay-heavy soil reaches 2,500 lb, and lighter compost blends drop to about 1,600 lb.

Bagged topsoil typically costs $4-8 per cubic foot, while bulk delivery runs $20-50 per cubic yard (27 cu ft). Bulk is almost always cheaper once you pass about 3 cubic yards. Bags only win for small patches under one yard.

For new sod or seed, spread 4-6 inches of topsoil over compacted subsoil. For overseeding an existing lawn, 0.25-0.5 inches is enough as a top dressing.

Topsoil settles 10-20% after spreading and watering, and uneven ground swallows more than flat math suggests. A 10% buffer covers normal settling. Bump to 15-20% on very lumpy sites or sloped beds.